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The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing


I read this quote on a blog today and it is so in tune with what I believe that I had to write about it.


We are constantly judged, right from our childhood, in every sphere we belong to, in each activity we attempt. We judge others and ourselves too. Due to this we place a very high premium on ‘being right’. It isn’t permitted to make mistakes. Sometimes this takes over every little thing we think and do. It develops a fear inside us. Failing is something terrible ! It is made out to be the end of the earth !


I personally believe that it is acceptable to make mistakes. At the simplest level, mistakes tell me what not to do, what doesn’t work. It serves as a guide for the next time. They give me insights about myself, my areas that need improvement. They give me a better understanding of the world around me.


To make mistakes, to pay for them offers me the greatest learning opportunity. I have erred…thousands of times…in things big and small. Each time I have admitted my mistake, paid for it and taken the opportunity to learn from it. I have also tried to help other people avoid the mistakes I made. Sometimes I have allowed them to make some so as to have their own learning experiences.


This belief of mine also allows me to enjoy art better. It makes me a rich-in-experience person. I can empathise with my fellow human beings better since I understand that it is OK to make mistakes.


Most importantly, I believe that they are reversible i.e. if you learn the lesson, the mistake will not repeat. If any harm has come from it, it can be healed. All you need is the willingness to work your way through. In fact, in my opinion, nothing but death is irreversible.


“The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing”
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